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Topic Review (Newest First)

02-28-2008 09:08 PM

curtis73

Be prepared for wallet shock. Things don't seem too bad, but when you add it up it can easily cost $850 for a full retrofit.

02-28-2008 06:17 PM

y112

roller cam

As far as any roller "fitting", they will. Some people think that the newer factory ones won't fit the older blocks, but that is not true. The factory cams have a smaller diameter end that was machined for the factory retainer plate that bolted to the block. The overall length is the same. Anytime you use a roller, you must control the endplay of the cam to prevent the roller lifters from hitting the adjacent lobes. This is done with a cam button on the older engines and a retaining plate on the newer engines. You can use a cam button on a newer factory roller in an older block.
The timing gears fit the same.

If you use a hydraulic roller in an older block, YOU MUST use the aftermarket lifters because the old blocks are not machined for the newer factory lifters and retainers.

You MUST match up components for the blower motor and I highly recommend calling one of the several tech lines available through Crane, comp cams, Lunati etc. for the best selection. So-called dumb questions are a lot cheaper than a mis-matched engine that runs like a pig.

After you determine how your vehicle will be driven most of the time, then you can start putting your plan together.
Tire size, gear ratio, trans, vehicle weight and rpm range info will be needed before you call the tech line.

Don't forget to consider the strength of the rear, trans, and axles that you will be using with the blower.

Hope to see some photos!

02-28-2008 06:12 PM

PatM

If the original engine came with a roller cam, do not use a retrofit. If the original engine came with a flat tappet cam, use a retrofit roller. Naturally, this all assumes that you're not specifically modifieing the block at the machine shop for the OEM type cam configuration.

Pat

02-28-2008 05:28 PM

smokin63

roller cam retrofit

I have a SBC 350 I am putting together , I want to convert it to a roller cam and its going to be supercharged . Will any roller cam work or is there something paticular about the ones labled as a retrofit ?